State Receives Strong Public Opposition to Guns in Capitol

Gov. Mike Parson’s administration is reviewing strong opposition expressed in public comments about a proposal to allow weapons in the Missouri Capitol.

The administration received 50 public comments between mid-November and mid-December that opposed the plan to allow firearms in the Capitol. The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports none of the comments supported the idea, even if owners had concealed carry permits.

Brittany Ruess, spokeswoman of the Office of Administration, says the agency is reviewing the comments and working to complete its review.

Former Gov. Eric Greitens temporarily banned guns in the building two years ago but reversed the decision after strong opposition.

The administration has until mid-February to submit the rule to a legislative committee, which would then have 30 days to change, reject or withdraw the rule.